Yeaman made 374 appearances for FC and retired after an outstanding 15-year career but the 34-year-old could now be called up to face the Robins at St James’ Park.

“Straight after the Featherstone game, Radders gave me the nod and told me that I might be needed in the coming weeks with the injuries we picked up,” Yeaman explained.

“I’ve had my head down training hard since I found out I could be needed and I’m ready to go. I’ll find out tomorrow for certain if I’m going to be playing this weekend, but there’s no better game to make your comeback in than the derby. For me personally, the match means a lot to me and I love being involved with them.

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“I’ve kept myself in shape and I’ve always thought at the back of my mind that there could be another chance like this after staying on as part of the coaching staff. I retired when I’d just turned 33 so I was still reasonably young.”

FC coach Lee Radford added: “I didn’t expect this deal to happen at the start of the season, but it’s needs-must at the moment and it is a credit to him that he is stepping up for us.

Hull FC's Kirk Yeaman. (Image: Dave Lofthouse)

“He’s kept himself in decent condition during retirement so getting him up to speed has been quicker than anticipated.

“There are a couple of lads in the under 19s who can play centre but I don’t think it would have done their careers any good to expose them to that environment just yet. He’s fit and he’s able and he knows what we’re about.

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“He’s over the moon to be back training and especially ahead of the derby. He loves the occasion and he’ll be hoping to add to his try-scoring tally this weekend if we need him in the side for Sunday.”